Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is home to a diverse community of underwater habitats, ranging from the only coral barrier reef in the continental United States to the largest documented contiguous seagrass community in the Northern Hemisphere. More than 6,000 animal species are found here, along with an array of submerged historical and cultural resources, making this one of the world's most cherished locations for diving, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. A team of researchers from NOAA's Mission: Iconic Reefs program and partners from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and the Coral Restoration Foundation completed a scientific mission February 14, 2024 to quantify the impact of 2023's marine heat wave on corals in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Sign up for our monthly newsletter for sanctuary news and upcoming events. public to lend a hand through the Iconic Reef Guardians program. All 3,800 square miles of the sanctuary fit in the palm of your hand with this GPS-enabled guide to Florida Keys waters. major review of regulations in the Florida Keys since 1997. sanctuaries and PapahÄnaumokuÄkea and Rose Atoll marine national monuments.